London, England: The Definitive Luxury Travel Guide

 

With a history extending over 2000 years it’s no wonder that London has cemented itself as a leader of cosmopolitan style, merging old and new, royal decadence with edgy contemporary. Home to world-class shopping, dining, and design, a trip to London is always exciting. Experience the finest this storied city has to offer with this luxury London travel guide. 

Flying into Heathrow Airport can be an ordeal, so having a quality hotel is essential to easily luxuriate across the pond. 

For design enthusiasts, The Goring is one of England’s Grande Dames, and in celebration of the historic building’s centennial, it underwent a full scale redesign. Four legendary English designers (Nina Campbell, Tim Gosling, David Linley, and Russell Sage) worked to bring their joyous vision to life, from the plush, sophisticated rooms, to the verdant private garden, to the delightful Dining Room at The Goring, which was recently awarded its first Michelin Star. To tie it all together, The Goring is situated across the street from Buckingham Palace, putting guests in the middle of the city’s rich history. 

For travelers looking for something a little more recent, L’oscar is London’s most stylish new hotel. Lavish and boutique, the 5-star hotel is a gorgeous baroque-style gem in the West End of London, acclaimed for its sumptuously decorated bedrooms and detailed, almost theatrical decor. Guests can expect goose-down pillows, intricate marble bathrooms, and a host of indulgent options for dining and cocktails- service and amenities fit for English royalty. 

Of course, there’s the royal family’s favorite hotel, Claridge’s. Since the hotel opened its doors in 1856, it has acted as a home base for royalty and celebrities alike, and has always stayed updated with modern design. Settle into a fabulous suite and toast your stay with complimentary champagne, before checking out Claridge’s captivating artspace. The art deco stylings of the hotel’s bar harken back to a golden age of bespoke cocktails and comfortable glamor, the spirit of luxurious London travel. 

From historical hotspots to traditional afternoon tea, London has a diverse restaurant scene sure to satisfy any traveler.

Dean Street Townhouse is the epitome of the bohemian neighborhood of Soho, as well as where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had their first date. The interior decoration is sophisticated and welcoming, with a carefully curated collection of art, chronicling the evolution of London’s modern art scene. The delicious cuisine is an updated menu of traditional British food, with an emphasis on seasonal produce, sourced from across Ireland and the United Kingdom. The authentic menu even includes afternoon tea and Sunday roasts. 

London isn’t exactly known for a wealth of West African food, but Chishuru is far and away the scene’s top dog. Richly complex and stunningly unique, Chishuru is a splendid introduction to the flavors of Nigeria, and the set-menus give guests a comprehensive tour of the region’s incredible cuisine. There isn’t another restaurant quite like it, and should be a serious consideration in any conversation about London travel.

Norma’s offers a Malaysian comfort menu from a tiny stall in the iconic Queensway Market. The hot soups and noodles are renowned for their authentic flavors, an instant staple of London’s underground food scene. If you’re looking for late-night takeout to enjoy in your fabulous hotel suite, Norma’s is the obvious choice. 

There’s no shortage of charming cocktail bars in London Town, but it’s fair to say that there are a handful of standouts. 

Authentique Epicerie & Bar is a cozy and friendly bar/wine seller with an unbelievable selection of wines, craft beers, and artisanal foods. The knowledgeable staff will go out of their way to find you the perfect glass, bottle, or pairing to soothe your soul after a long day of exploring London’s streets. 

For a supremely stylish speakeasy, The Connaught Bar is the perfect place to rub elbows with London’s elites. The drinks are as fashionable as the decor, modern twists on English and Irish classics. Guests can feel like a real British aristocrat when their sparkling martinis are delivered on silvered carts by master bartenders. 

Copeland Social is the place to be for a great sound system and hanging with friends. This hot hipster spot is always packed with energetic clientele looking for coffee, burgers, casual beers, and top-notch cocktails. The indoor-outdoor space is festive, welcoming, and effortlessly cool. Be sure to try the Peckham punch, a fruity ensemble with four different types of rum. 

London is a serious design and fashion destination, and no trip is complete without acquiring some new threads. 

Acclaimed fashion designer Erdem Moralioglu has opened his first standalone flagship store in Mayfair, and the sophisticated boutique is a must-visit for those looking to stay ahead of fashion trends. The two stories of vintage furnishings and witty drawings by Andy Warhold and Jean Cocteau are a veritable museum, and the clothes within are just as intriguing. 

Jewelry designer Delfina Delettrez-heiress to the Fendi Fashion throne-has opened a store hosting her designs, handcrafted in Rome, displayed against malachite-print walls and antiques plucked from her childhood home. The treasures within make fantastic gifts, and are the perfect souvenir to remember your London travel experience.

In the heart of Chelsea, the bespoke LEMA displays 400 square meters of premier Italian interior design, a major player in contemporary hospitality and retail. If you’re in the market for fantastic furnishings, the UK store on King’s road is a real treat to visit.